UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 42 of 98
UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Mixed Farming
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2012
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectGeography
- TopicAgriculture Geography
- DifficultyMedium
- TypeDirect
Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
Show answer
Answer: C. Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together.
Verdict
Correct Answer: Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
Analysis
Mixed farming means combining crop cultivation with livestock rearing on the same farm.
Its chief feature is integration of plant-based and animal-based activities for better income, resource use and risk reduction.
1. Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops — Incorrect
This refers to crop diversification, not mixed farming.
It may improve income security, but it does not involve the integration of crops with livestock.
2. Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field — Incorrect
This refers to mixed cropping or intercropping.
Do not confuse mixed cropping with mixed farming; mixed cropping involves only crops, while mixed farming combines crops and animals.
3. Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together — Correct
This is the chief characteristic of mixed farming.
Crops provide fodder for animals, while animals provide manure for maintaining soil fertility.
Extra UPSC info
* Mixed farming helps reduce farmers’ dependence on a single source of income.
* It provides income even if crops fail due to drought, flood or monsoon variability.
* Livestock products like milk, eggs and meat can provide regular cash flow.
* Crop residues can be used as fodder, reducing waste.
* Animal waste can be used as organic manure, reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.
* It supports sustainable agriculture and better use of farm labour throughout the year.
How to crack it
Mixed farming is defined by the combined practice of crop cultivation and animal rearing on the same farm.